* Press release…

Today, the Democratic Party of Illinois announced two new staff hires: Jake Lewis will serve as Deputy Director overseeing all communications and Maralea Negron will serve as Operations Director.

“We’re thrilled for Jake and Maralea to join the DPI team,” said Congresswoman Robin Kelly, DPI Chair. “Both Jake and Maralea bring unique skills and experiences to the DPI that will support our work in making the party more active, inclusive, and transparent. Jake has been a leading voice in some of our most recent progressive political and legislative fights and he will be critical in helping us connect with voters about Democratic successes while holding Republicans accountable. Maralea’s experience working with Springfield legislators and advocating for the most vulnerable individuals throughout our state will serve the DPI well as we continue to grow our capacity and build our party.”

Jake Lewis will serve as Deputy Director and will oversee all communications. Previously, he worked as the Director of Communications for the Chicago Federation of Labor where he was responsible for internal and external communications. Jake also worked as the Campaign Director for Illinois Working Together, a labor coalition fighting for working families during the Rauner Administration, as a strategist for the political consultancy 270 Strategies and as field director for now Sen. Tammy Duckworth in her 2012 run for Congress.

“I am thrilled to join the DPI team and work to support Democrats up and down the ballot,” said Lewis. “Illinois Democrats have led the charge at the local, state, and federal levels to grow jobs, end the pandemic, protect our environment, and build a stronger economy that works for everyone. I look forward to helping the DPI communicate with voters, party leaders, and activists about the Democrats’ vision for the future as we head into a major election year.”

Maralea Negron will serve as Operations Director, working hand-in-hand with DPI leadership to ensure the party grows in size and scale to work with all Democrats this cycle. Previously, she worked as Chief of Staff to Rep. Kelly Cassidy, developing policy by engaging grassroots advocates and stakeholders on issues, tracking legislation, and serving as a liaison to the community and constituents. She also serves on the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission of the Illinois Department of Human Rights.

“I couldn’t be more excited to join the DPI team,” said Negron. “Now more than ever, our communities need Democratic leaders who will stand up for what is right and take on the toughest challenges we all face. I am eager to be a part of the DPI team as it continues to grow to meet Chair Kelly’s vision of an inclusive, effective state party.”

Jake won a Golden Horseshoe Award for his work at Illinois Working Together.